Getting Involved, Diving Deep: My Fall '23 Semester Reflection
By Nina Prenosil
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As the semester comes to a close, I’d like to reflect on all that has happened over these last few months. As I think back on my classes and experiences of Fall ‘23 I am thrilled it went smoothly, but it is bittersweet knowing that I won’t be on campus next semester, as I will be abroad in Florence, Italy.
This semester was quite transformative for me because it was the first full semester I worked for both Commonwealth Honors College and the Massachusetts Daily Collegian. Earlier in my college career I had been a bit reluctant to get involved around campus, but I am so glad I did as it completely enhanced my experience. In both positions – I have not only gained professional knowledge but have met amazing people as well! Getting involved in student organizations and work was the best choice I could have made. So just know that it is never too late to start!
Another aspect of the fall semester that stood out to me is that I lived off-campus with my two roommates. Moving into my first apartment was a bit nerve-wracking, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. It allowed me the opportunity to explore more of the off-campus student life experiences. My friends and I tried new local restaurants, I started going on runs around my neighborhood, and my housemates and I hosted casual dinner parties.
My living situation this semester allowed me to have fun, but was also a great opportunity to learn how to live independently.
As it turns out… cooking is fun and really not that hard! I’m sad to say goodbye to my apartment for the spring semester, but I feel so ready for life in my new apartment in Florence!
In terms of academics, I enjoyed that I got to do a deep dive into major-specific coursework. This semester was a perfectly equal blend of both public relations and psychology classes, and I am leaving this semester with a whole new set of knowledge that is vital for the foundation of my desired field – public relations and marketing. I also was a teaching assistant for Abnormal Psychology, taught by Professor Halgin, which was such a great opportunity. Having the option to take a class you loved again, and master the information taught, is an invaluable experience and one that I definitely recommend.
Now I’d like to talk about my favorite aspect of the semester, my home away from home, the Student Union.
On any given day I am at the Student Union doing homework or hanging out with friends and peers. I consider the Student Union, or “the Stu” as I like to call it, the social hub of UMass. All day long students filter through the building on their way to class, to do homework, or to grab a bite to eat at Earthfoods and People’s Market. Over the years the Student Union has become my favorite place on campus!
This semester I also took time to see a few concerts in both Amherst and Boston. In September I saw the Q-tip Bandits perform at the local concert venue in Amherst, The Drake, and traveled to Boston to see Greta Van Fleet at TD Garden. Earlier in December, I headed to Boston again to see a rising star, Stephen Sanchez.
Going to concerts is something I recently discovered I love to do, and I’m so thankful that both Amherst and Northampton have a music scene.
I talk a bit more about this in my article, Rooted in Western Mass: A Native’s Perspective on the Heart of the Region Around Amherst, so be sure to check it out.
As I reflect on the semester I also realized how many new friends I have made throughout the months. It’s easy to say that the new friends I have made are my favorite aspect of this semester.
School can be stressful with the amount of homework and extracurriculars many of us deal with, and I have found it so helpful to unwind by spending time with my friends. I am always grateful that I go to a large university where I could meet someone new everyday! It’s one of my favorite parts of UMass.
I hope everyone else had a wonderful semester and is looking forward to a restful break. We earned it!
Featuring
Nina Prenosil
Nina Prenosil is a communications assistant in Commonwealth Honors College.
